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Which of the following statements is MOST accurate rega…

Which of the following statements is MOST accurate regarding a digital signature?

PrepAway - Latest Free Exam Questions & Answers

A.
It is a method used to encrypt confidential data.

B.
It is the art of transferring handwritten signature to electronic media.

C.
It allows the recipient of data to prove the source and integrity of data.

D.
It can be used as a signature system and a cryptosystem.

Explanation:
The purpose of digital signatures is to detect unauthorized modifications of data, and to authenticate the identity
of the signatories and non-repudiation. These functions are accomplished by generating a block of data that isusually smaller than the size of the original data. This smaller block of data is bound to the original data and to
the identity of the sender. This binding verifies the integrity of data and provides non-repudiation. To quote the
National Institute Standards and Technology (NIST) Digital Signature Standard (DSS): Digital signatures are
used to detect unauthorized modifications to data and to authenticate the identity of the signatory. In addition,
the recipient of signed data can use a digital signature in proving to a third party that the signature was in fact
generated by the signatory.
Incorrect Answers:
A: Digital signatures do not provide encryption.
B: A digital signature is not the art of transferring handwritten signature to electronic media.
D: A digital signature cannot be used as a signature system and a cryptosystem.

Krutz, Ronald L. and Russel Dean Vines, The CISSP Prep Guide: Mastering the Ten Domains of Computer
Security, John Wiley & Sons, New York, 2001, p. 151


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